A Rwandan and a South African firm have signed a partnership to promote Rwanda as a Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events and Exhibitions (MICE) hub.

The agreement between Ikaze Professional Conference Organisers and Crystal Events Africa, will see the South African firm market Rwanda as one of the leading conference hubs and a must-visit tourist destination, says Tes Proos, Founding Partner of Crystal Events Africa.

“The main purpose of the partnership is to encourage global companies and organisations to hold conferences in Rwanda and Africa, as well as to create awareness of Rwanda’s attractions and its tourism potential,” said Proos.

She pointed out that the country had the potential to attract more tourists, which would help create jobs and spur economic growth.

The Rwanda Development Board projects that MICE will contribute $64 million to Rwanda’s economy this year, up from $47 million in 2016.

The MICE strategy seeks to make Rwanda a top conference hub and a key revenue contributor to the tourism sector’s total returns as well as enhance job creation.

“We are excited about the opportunities that Rwanda and Africa have to offer. The flexibility and co-operative spirit between African tourism authorities has been encouraging and instrumental to our efforts to promote the continent,” said Proos.